In a soup kettle, combine ribs, water, tomatoes, onion, salt if desired and pepper; bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat: cover and simmer for 1-1/2 to 2 hours or until meat is tender.,Remove ribs; cool.,Skim fat. Remove meat from bones and cut into bite-size pieces; return to broth.,______,Reduce heat; cover and simmer 15 minutes.,Add barley; return to a boil.,Reduce heat; cover and cook 10-15 minutes or until barley and vegetables are tender.,Add parsley.